Does the phrase "Business Plan" cause you to panic? Just like most of our clients are afraid (or don't know how) to write a resume, writing a business plan can be intimidating. It doesn't have to be! You can learn to develop a customized, simple, effective, and usable business plan for growth and financial success. Does not require extensive knowledge of accounting and finance; the focus will be on strategy and simple principles. Includes examples, checklists, resources, and templates.

After taking this training session, participants will be able to:

• Explain why the business planning process can help a business owner make choices and priorities about business growth.
• Evaluate their own personal roadblocks to writing a business plan, and why the lack of a plan creates problems.
• Complete a business plan using a traditional format, with simple financial measures.
• Use a non-conventional business plan format to achieve growth and results.
• Choose and track their own success benchmarks at regular intervals.
• Plan specific steps to help themselves commit to business planning in some way.
• Enjoy increased confidence about their ability to begin planning, writing and measuring their business success versus their goals.

Gail Frank, NCRW, CPRW, JCTC, CEIP, is a career services professional who offers outplacement workshops, resume writing, and interview training for small companies and individuals. She is a Harvard graduate with a degree in economics and has a ten-year corporate background in brand management, marketing, and operations for Procter & Gamble and BIC Corporation. Gail holds a master’s degree in adult education/corporate training and also works as a trainer and consultant for top outplacement firm DBM. In addition, she runs a marketing consulting firm helping small business owners with marketing, communications, and training solutions.